Showing 115 results for Research Article: Research Article
Parineeta Shelke , Preeti Doshi , Amit Nisal , Abdulrahaman Momin , Ravindra Nimbargi ,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background: Hemoglobinopathies are a group of inherited disorders characterized by abnormal hemoglobin structure or synthesis, primarily classified into thalassemia syndromes and structural hemoglobin variants. Recognized as a global health priority, these disorders necessitate accurate diagnostic approaches. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) has emerged as a reliable method for their detection. This study aimed to analyze the spectrum of hemoglobinopathies using HPLC in a population from Western Maharashtra, India.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Bharati Vidyapeeth (DTU) Medical College, Pune, over three years. A total of 1,455 specimens from individuals of both genders were analyzed using the VARIANT™ II β-Thalassemia Short Program based on ion-exchange chromatography. Hematological parameters were assessed for all subjects, and the prevalence of hemoglobinopathies, along with their subtypes, was documented.
Results: The mean age of the study population was 26.91 ± 7.06 years, with a female predominance. The overall incidence of hemoglobinopathies was 8.78%, with β-thalassemia minor being the most prevalent, followed by β-thalassemia major, Hb S trait, and Hb S disease. Rare variants included two cases of Hb D Punjab heterozygosity and one case of Hb E heterozygosity. The Mentzer index exhibited a positive correlation with Hb F and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) and a negative correlation with hemoglobin levels, Hb A, and red cell distribution width (RDW-C).
Conclusion: The study revealed an 8.78% prevalence of hemoglobinopathies in the region, with β-thalassemia trait (Heterozygous) being the most common. Notably, co-inheritance of Hb E with β-thalassemia exacerbated anemia severity. These findings underscore the importance of HPLC-based screening for early diagnosis and management of hemoglobinopathies in high-risk populations.
Roohollah Mohammadi Mirzaei, Hamid Malekshahi , Halimeh Vahdatpoor ,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background: Diabetes is a metabolic and vascular disorder characterized by endothelial dysfunction. Physical activity, particularly intermittent exercise, may offer therapeutic benefits. This study examined the effects of six weeks of intermittent exercise on serum nitric oxide (NO), insulin resistance, and lipid profiles in male diabetic rats.
Methods: Sixty Wistar rats (8 weeks old, 200 ± 20 g) were divided into six groups (n=10): healthy control, sham, interval training, interval training + saline, diabetic control, and diabetic + interval training. Diabetes was induced via nicotinamide-streptozotocin injection. The exercise groups underwent treadmill training (5 sessions/week for 6 weeks). Post-intervention, glucose, insulin, NO, LDL, HDL, triglycerides, and cholesterol were measured.
Results: Diabetes induction significantly increased glucose and insulin resistance while reducing insulin and NO levels compared to controls (P < 0.001). After six weeks, the diabetic + exercise group showed significant reductions in glucose and insulin resistance (P < 0.001) and increased NO levels (P < 0.001) versus the diabetic group. Insulin levels did not differ significantly among the groups (P = 0.11). Lipid profiles (LDL, HDL, triglycerides, cholesterol) remained unchanged (P > 0.05).
Conclusion: Six weeks of intermittent exercise improved glucose metabolism and vascular function in the diabetic rats by reducing insulin resistance and increasing NO levels, suggesting its potential as a non-pharmacological therapy for diabetes-related endothelial dysfunction.
Zeinab Siahmargoie , Mohammad Taher Hojjati , Hadi Bazzazi , Khodaberdi Kalavi , Mana Zakeri , Hadi Joshaghani ,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background: Polycythemia Vera (PV) is a myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN) characterized by the overactivity of erythroid progenitors, leading to excessive red blood cell (RBC) production. More than 90% of PV cases harbor a Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) gene mutation. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of JAK2 mutations in individuals with elevated hemoglobin (Hb) levels referred to the laboratory by physicians.
Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, genomic DNA from 72 patients was analyzed for JAK2 mutations using a TaqMan-specific probe.
Results: Of the 72 patients, 24 (33.3%) were women and 48 (66.6%) were men. JAK2 mutations were detected in 33 cases (45.5%), while 39 (54.2%) were negative. Notably, 15 of 24 female patients (62.5%) tested positive for the JAK2 mutation, compared to 18 of 48 male patients (37.5%).
Conclusion: Our findings suggest that screening for JAK2 mutations is particularly important in women with above-normal Hb levels.
Mazhar Khan , Akash Sarkate , Poonam Wade , Sushma Mailk ,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background: Hyperbilirubinemia is the most common clinical abnormality in newborns during the first week of life. Phototherapy is the standard treatment but may cause complications, including hypocalcemia, a lesser-known yet significant adverse effect. This study investigated the impact of phototherapy on serum calcium levels in neonates with hyperbilirubinemia.
Methods: This observational study was conducted in the NICU of BYL and T.N. Medical College, Mumbai, over 12 months after ethical approval. We included 100 neonates (> 34 weeks gestational age) with hyperbilirubinemia receiving phototherapy. Serum calcium levels were measured before and after phototherapy, and neonates were monitored for clinical hypocalcemia. Data were recorded in a pre-formatted proforma and analyzed using SPSS version 27 (p <0.05 was considered statistically significant).
Results: The mean age of neonates was 3±1.2 days, the mean gestational age was 37±1.2 weeks, and the mean jaundice duration was 2.8±1.10 days. Median serum calcium levels decreased significantly from 8.6 mg/dL (8.49-8.61) pre-phototherapy to 7.35 mg/dL (7.33-7.50) post-phototherapy (p <0.001). Hypocalcemia (serum calcium ≤7 mg/dL) occurred in 16% of neonates, with 60% exhibiting mild symptoms like jitteriness or irritability.
Conclusion: Phototherapy significantly reduces serum calcium levels in jaundiced neonates, with a notable incidence of hypocalcemia. Clinicians should monitor calcium levels and watch for symptoms during phototherapy to prevent complications. Further studies are needed to establish preventive strategies.
Parisa Hasanein , Fahime Javadi Hedaiat Abad, Mousa Bohlooli , Mostafa Khajeh , Sedigheh Esmaielzadeh Bahabadi , Neda Poormolaei ,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background: DNA glycation, a process where Glc non-enzymatically binds to DNA, is implicated in various detrimental effects, including strand breaks, mutations, and altered gene expression. This damage is considered a significant contributor to the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus and its associated complications. Consequently, there has been increasing interest in identifying antiglycation agents as a strategy for preventing and mitigating these complications. Prior research has indicated that extracts from Tamarix aphylla (T. aphylla) leaves possess antidiabetic properties. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate, for the first time, the impact of T. aphylla extract on Glc-mediated DNA glycation.
Methods: DNA samples were incubated with Glc over a four-week period. Subsequently, the modulatory effects of T. aphylla on Glc-induced DNA structural alterations were investigated employing a range of analytical techniques. These methodologies encompassed ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy, and agarose gel electrophoresis.
Results: The results obtained from UV–Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy demonstrated that T. aphylla extract led to a reduction in the formation of DNA-advanced glycation end products (AGEs). Furthermore, CD spectroscopy and agarose gel electrophoresis analyses indicated that the structural alterations of glycated DNA were diminished in the presence of T. aphylla extract.
Conclusion: Based on the evidence presented, T. aphylla demonstrates protective properties against DNA glycation. Consequently, pending further rigorous investigation, it may represent a potentially valuable therapeutic agent for mitigating the detrimental consequences of glycation, particularly in environments characterized by elevated Glc concentrations and hyperglycemic states.
Moshami Shinde, Bharati Avinash Dalal, Meera Sujit Modak,
Volume 19, Issue 3 (5-2025)
Abstract
Background: Dermatophytes are keratinophilic fungi that cause superficial infections of the skin, hair, and nails. The prevalence of dermatophytosis is influenced by factors, such as climate, age, gender, lifestyle, and socioeconomic status. In tropical and subtropical regions, like India, hot and humid conditions contribute to its high incidence. This study aimed to isolate and identify dermatophytes from clinically diagnosed cases of dermatophytosis.
Methods: A total of 100 clinically diagnosed cases were examined by direct microscopy (KOH mount) and fungal culture on Sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA) and Dermatophyte Test Medium (DTM).
Results: The most common clinical presentation was Tinea corporis (42%), followed by Tinea cruris (25%) and Tinea unguium (21%). Out of 100 samples, 53 were culture-positive. The predominant isolates were Trichophyton rubrum (30%), Trichophyton mentagrophytes (20%), and Trichophyton violaceum (13.3%). Among culture media, SDA yielded 92.45% isolates, while DTM showed higher sensitivity (96.22%).
Conclusion: Isolation and identification of dermatophytes are crucial for accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and epidemiological surveillance. Understanding the local prevalence and etiological agents aids in managing therapeutic challenges and preventing transmission.
Pius Omoruyi Omosigho, Guobadia Precious Oghogho, Ugiagbe Victory Osayekewmen, Olalekan John Okesanya, Janet Mosunmola Oladejo , Uyigue Paulinus Osarodion,
Volume 19, Issue 3 (5-2025)
Abstract
Background: Candida species are known to be the most frequently encountered fungal pathogens in humans. There has been a noticeable rise in the occurrence of human infections caused by Candida over the past few decades. This cross-sectional study aimed to identify different species of Candida and determine the antifungal susceptibility patterns of Candida species isolated from clinical specimens in a tertiary hospital in Benin, Edo State, Nigeria.
Methods: A total of 104 Candida isolates were obtained from various clinical specimens using a simple random sampling technique. The isolates were cultured on Sabouraud dextrose agar and were later sub-cultured on CHROMagar Candida after morphological characteristics observation and identification of Candida species were confirmed based on characteristic color production on CHROMagar. Antifungal susceptibility testing for Candida isolates was conducted following the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute M44-A recommendations for Amphotericin B, Ketoconazole, Fluconazole, and Nystatin. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 20.0.
Results: Candida albicans was the most prevalent species, accounting for 72.1% of isolates, followed by Candida krusei (17.3%), Candida tropicalis (7.7%), and Candida glabrata (2.9%). High vaginal swabs showed the highest frequency of Candida isolates (46.2%). Females exhibited a higher preponderance of candidiasis (81.3%) compared to males. With p-values of 0.007* and 0.028*, respectively, Candida albicans and Candida glabrata exhibited significant differences in susceptibility to Amphotericin B and Fluconazole antifungal drugs. The antifungal susceptibility testing indicated variations in resistance patterns among different Candida species.
Conclusion: The study revealed a predominance of Candida albicans in clinical specimens, with emerging cases of non-albicans species. Antifungal resistance to clinically available agents raised concerns, necessitating continuous surveillance and monitoring of susceptibility patterns. The results underscore the importance of developing targeted strategies to combat the challenges posed by antifungal resistance.
Behrooz Mohammadnezhad, Seyed Abdollah Hashemvarzi ,
Volume 19, Issue 3 (5-2025)
Abstract
Background: Inflammation plays a major role in the development and progression of diabetes. Vitamin D deficiency and physical inactivity can also increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Combined therapeutic strategies are promising approaches for the treatment and prevention of diabetes. This study aimed to investigate the effects of resistance training, vitamin D3 supplementation, and adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation on tumor necrosis factor-beta levels in the cerebral cortex of diabetic rats.
Methods: Eighty male Wistar rats (Weighing 290±19 g) were randomly divided into 10 groups: healthy control, sham, diabetes, training, vitamin D, MSC, training+vitamin D, MSC+training, MSC+vitamin D, and training+MSC+vitamin D. Training groups were subjected to a resistance training program on a ladder. MSC groups received 1.5 × 106 MSCs, and vitamin D supplementation groups received 1 microgram/kilogram of vitamin D3 eight times. Cortical TNF-β levels and fasting serum glucose levels were measured.
Results: After six weeks, the combination of resistance training with vitamin D3 supplementation and MSC transplantation (P=0.018), as well as the combination of resistance training with MSCs (P=0.024), significantly reduced the diabetes-induced elevation of TNF-β levels.
Conclusion: Resistance training with appropriate intensity, duration, and recovery between exercise sessions, combined with MSC transplantation and vitamin D3 supplementation, has profound anti-inflammatory effects on the cerebral cortex tissue of diabetic rats. This type of intervention, especially the transplantation of MSCs, may be a promising protective strategy against some complications of diabetes.
Eliz Thomas , Nidhya Ganesan , Lawanya Gunaseelan , Subbarao Tadury Madhukar ,
Volume 19, Issue 3 (5-2025)
Abstract
Background: This study aimed to analyze the hematological parameters in pregnant women who were COVID-positive in a tertiary care hospital and to observe whether there was an association between the findings and disease severity.
Methods: This retrospective study included 64 COVID-positive pregnant patients who were admitted to our hospital, under the obstetrics department, during the period from June 2020 to December 2020. The hematological parameters, such as hemoglobin, MCV, RDW, etc., of these women during the third trimester were assessed, and the outcome of the pregnancy was recorded.
Results: Among 64 COVID-positive pregnant women, 14 complained of the usual symptoms like fever, cough, or headache. One complained of increased breathlessness. After hematological work-up, 46 (72%) patients were recorded to have anemia, and 38 (59%) showed leukocytosis. Neutrophilia was seen in 34 patients. The platelet count was within normal limits for all. Forty-nine of them underwent caesarean section for various reasons, the most common being previous caesarean section. Sixty-two deliveries were done at term. Only one of the babies delivered had anemia at birth. The 1- and 5-minute APGAR scores recorded for all the babies were 7 to 9. Fifteen babies delivered underwent RT-PCR testing and were found to be negative.
Conclusion: The laboratory parameters most commonly seen among the COVID-19 pregnant women were anemia, leukocytosis, and neutrophilia, which are comparable to the physiological changes in pregnancy. There was no adverse outcome observed in any of the pregnancies, and all the fetuses were normal. There was no incidence of vertical transmission of the virus among the tested neonates.
Raouf Moradian, Amir Haji Ghasem, Saleh Rahmati, Lida Moradi,
Volume 19, Issue 3 (5-2025)
Abstract
Background: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a highly prevalent and chronic liver disease, is characterized by a diverse range of conditions that span across a broad spectrum. Engaging in consistent physical activity has proven to be a successful method in effectively managing NAFLD, as it has demonstrated the ability to enhance crucial elements implicated in the development of the condition.
Methods: Twenty-one male Wistar rats were divided into three groups: 1. NAFLD, 2. NAFLD + resistance training (RT), and 3. NAFLD + RT + atorvastatin (ATO). The groups received high-fat/fructose diet (HFFD) to induce NAFLD and it was confirmed through evaluation of histopathological analysis (H&E staining) and measurement of aminotransferase enzymes. ATO was administrated at a dose of 2 mg/kg/day. The interventions were carried out over eight weeks.
Results: Triglyceride (TG), Alanine transaminase (ALT), and aspartate transaminase (AST) were significantly reduced in the NAFLD + RT + ATO group. Additionally, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels were lower in NAFLD + RT group than NAFLD + RT + ATO group. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was reduced in both NAFLD + RT and NAFLD + RT + ATO groups compared to NAFLD. There was no significant difference in weight between the groups except the first, second, and fourth weeks.
Conclusion: Resistance training in combination with the administration of ATO can be deemed as an efficacious and supplementary strategy to effectively control and address NAFLD.
Adedeji Okikiade , Chidinma Kanu , Oluwadamilare Iyapo , Ololade Omitogun,
Volume 19, Issue 3 (5-2025)
Abstract
Background: Pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) is a multi-system disorder affecting 6-8% of pregnancies in the U.S. and contributing significantly to maternal mortality, accounting for 16% in developed countries. It progresses from preeclampsia to eclampsia, leading to multi-organ damage through mechanisms such as oxidative stress, placental ischemia, and endothelial dysfunction. While the exact pathogenesis remains unclear, genetic, immunologic, and environmental factors are implicated. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecology (ACOG) recommends initiating treatment when diastolic blood pressure exceeds 105-110 mmHg.
Methods: This narrative review examines existing literature on PIH, including epidemiological data, pathophysiological mechanisms, clinical management guidelines, and associated complications such as abnormal placentation, oxidative stress, and endothelial dysfunction.
Results: This study demonstrates that hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) significantly impact maternal and fetal health, particularly in developing countries with limited healthcare access. Early detection and continuous monitoring play a key role in reducing complications. Additionally, HDP is associated with increased long-term cardiovascular and metabolic risks, highlighting the importance of postpartum follow-up.
Conclusion: HDP poses a serious threat to maternal and fetal health, with potential long-term consequences. Effective management requires early diagnosis, close monitoring, and postpartum follow-up. Global implementation of risk assessment and targeted care strategies can help reduce the burden of this condition. Strengthening healthcare systems and increasing awareness among healthcare providers and patients are essential steps toward improving outcomes.
Atere Adedeji David , Ehuine Elizabeth Efe , Kosamat Yekeen Adebisi , Ige Ilesanmi Paul ,
Volume 19, Issue 4 (7-2025)
Abstract
Background: Menopause, characterized by the cessation of menstrual periods, often leads to bone diseases due to hormonal changes, particularly affecting calcium metabolism. This study aimed to evaluate bone-associated biomarkers and their correlation with parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels in postmenopausal women, shedding light on potential osteoporosis risks.
Methods: Sixty postmenopausal (PMP) women, along with 20 premenopausal (PRM) and 20 reproductive-age (RWA) women as controls, were included in this cross-sectional study. Blood samples were analyzed for PTH, vitamin D, uric acid, calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and estradiol levels.
Results: Statistical analysis revealed significantly higher levels of ALP and phosphorus, and lower levels of calcium, PTH, vitamin D, uric acid, and estradiol in PMP and PRM groups compared to RWA (p <0.05). Moreover, PTH had a significant negative correlation with ALP, and phosphorus; however, it had a positive correlation with calcium, vitamin D, and estradiol in PMP women. ALP demonstrated a superior area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC-ROC) compared to other bone-associated markers.
Conclusion: These findings highlight the reduced bone-associated biomarker levels in postmenopausal women, potentially increasing the risk of bone loss and osteoporosis.
Azam Shareh , Behnoush Khasheii , Tayebeh Faraji , Masoud Khoshnia , Shaghayegh Anvari , Ailar Jamalli ,
Volume 19, Issue 4 (7-2025)
Abstract
Background: Antibiotic resistance in Helicobacter pylori infections can lead to treatment failure. This study aims to evaluate the antibiotic resistance to metronidazole, clarithromycin, and fluoroquinolone in H. pylori strains isolated from gastric biopsy specimens.
Methods: This study was conducted between 2016 and 2017 on 80 biopsy specimens obtained from Golestan province. Resistance to metronidazole (rdxA) and fluoroquinolones (gyrA) was determined using PCR. Mutations in the loci of the 23S rRNA gene associated with clarithromycin resistance were analyzed using PCR-RFLP with the BsaI and BbsI enzymes.
Results: In this study, 25% of H. pylori strains showed resistance to clarithromycin. Mutations in the A2143G locus (65%) and the A2142G locus (35%) were detected in these strains. Resistance to fluoroquinolones (27.5%) was observed, with the most common mutations being at the 91 amino acid position of aspartate (63.63%) and the 87 amino acid position of asparagine (36.36%). Resistance to metronidazole was not observed in any of the strains of this study, and concomitant resistance to clarithromycin and fluoroquinolones was observed in 13.75% of H. pylori strains.
Conclusion: According to our study, in Iran, the resistance of H. pylori to clarithromycin is increasing, which may lead to treatment failure. The mechanism of clarithromycin resistance is related to mutations in the A2143G and A2142G positions, and a mutation in the gyrA gene causes resistance to fluoroquinolones, which often occurs in the 91 amino acid position.
Seyed Sadegh Baniaghil , Fardin Balochi , Ereste Kazzak ,
Volume 19, Issue 4 (7-2025)
Abstract
Background: One of the major complications in thalassemia patients is alloimmunization, which occurs when the patient produces antibodies against transfused Red Blood Cells (RBCs). In the present study, the frequency of alloantibodies was investigated in patients with thalassemia major.
Methods: This cross-sectional retrospective study was performed on 99 multi-transfused patients with thalassemia major. An antibody screening test was carried out using a three-cell panel. Positive patients were followed up for antibody identification using an 11-cell panel. The information was finally analyzed using SPSS software version 16.0.
Results: Out of ninety-nine cases, 53 were female (53.53 %) and 46 were male (46.46 %). The patient’s mean age was 29.22±10.46 years with an age range of 2 to 61 years. Only 5.05% (n=5) had developed alloantibodies. The most common alloantibodies were anti-D, anti-E, anti-c, and anti-K. No significant correlation was seen between the presence of alloantibody and age, sex, blood type, and spleen condition.
Conclusion: Antibody production against RBC antigens is a common problem in multi-transfused thalassemia patients. Compatibility between antigens of the Kell and Rh blood group systems in donors and recipients can be one of the useful ways to prevent alloimmunization of blood recipients and the formation of unexpected antibodies against the donor’s red blood cells.
Maryam Enshaei Mojarad , Hajar Abbaszadeh , Parvin Farzanegi ,
Volume 19, Issue 4 (7-2025)
Abstract
Background: Obesity and prediabetes are associated with chronic low-grade inflammation, and macrophage-related markers such as IL-10, Dectin-1, and IL-1Ra play a key role in modulating inflammatory responses. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of a period of high-intensity functional training (HIFT) on IL-10, Dectin-1, and IL-1Ra in prediabetic obese women to assess the impact of this exercise modality on M2 macrophage markers.
Methods: Thirty eligible female volunteers aged 35-40 years were selected and homogeneously divided into two groups: 1) control (n=15) and 2) training (n=15). The training group underwent a 16-week HIFT program based on CrossFit protocols, incorporating squats, deadlifts, barbell/dumbbell exercises, kettlebell swings, and aerobic/weight-bearing movements in a Workout of the Day format (60 min/session). The control group maintained their daily routines without structured exercise. Serum levels of Dectin-1, IL-10, and IL-1Ra were measured via ELISA. Descriptive statistics (Mean, standard deviation) were used for data analysis.
Results: After 16 weeks, HIFT significantly reduced Dectin-1 (P = 0.048) and increased IL-10 (P < 0.0001) and IL-1Ra (P < 0.0001) levels in prediabetic obese women.
Conclusion: These findings suggest that 16 weeks of HIFT may enhance anti-inflammatory markers (IL-10, IL-1Ra) and modulate Dectin-1, potentially mitigating obesity-related inflammatory complications in prediabetic women.
Mojtaba Raeisi , Fatemeh Hooshmand , Marziyeh Gheraati, Masood Aman Mohammadi , Negin Mehdinejad ,
Volume 19, Issue 4 (7-2025)
Abstract
Background: Due to the growing problem of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and rising consumer preference for natural food preservatives, there is an increased interest in plant-based antimicrobial agents. While Salix aegyptiaca (S. aegyptiaca), also known as Musk Willow, is a promising source of bioactive compounds, its antibacterial properties have not been extensively studied. Therefore, this research investigates the chemical composition and antibacterial effectiveness of essential oils extracted from the leaves and male inflorescences of S. aegyptiaca against important foodborne pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Escherichia coli (E. coli), Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes), and Salmonella enteritidis (S. enteritidis).
Methods: Essential oils were extracted from the leaves and male inflorescences of S. aegyptiaca through hydrodistillation. The chemical composition of these oils was then determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) to identify their bioactive constituents. The antibacterial efficacy of the extracted oils was assessed using several methods, including the determination of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC), as well as diffusion assays (Agar disk and agar well diffusion).
Results: GC-MS analysis revealed that the leaf oil was predominantly composed of 1,4-dimethoxybenzene, citronellol, and eugenol, whereas carvone was the main constituent of the male inflorescence oil. The leaf oil demonstrated superior antimicrobial activity, particularly against S. aureus, for which the MIC was determined to be 1250 µg/mL. Both oils indicated limited efficacy against Gram-negative bacteria. Of the strains tested, S. aureus proved to be the most susceptible, while E. coli exhibited the highest resistance.
Conclusion: The essential oils extracted from S. aegyptiaca, especially from its leaves, have shown significant antibacterial effects against common foodborne pathogens. This suggests they could be used as natural food preservatives, offering a viable alternative to synthetic additives. Additional research is necessary to investigate their use in food products and to establish their toxicological safety.
Dr Apurba Sastry, Ms Shuruthi Kirubakaran, Dr Sarumathi Dhandapani, Dr Ketan Priyadarshi,
Volume 19, Issue 5 (9-2025)
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Background: The emergence of multi-drug resistant organisms has limited the choice of therapeutic options to treat infections. The lack of development of new antimicrobials paved the way for considering the reassessment of older antibiotics like fosfomycin. In this context, we assessed the in-vitro effect of fosfomycin against carbapenem- resistant Enterobacterales and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus on bloodstream isolates by agar dilution, disk diffusion and screen agar.
Material & Methods: All the 141 consecutive blood isolates which were resistant to carbapenem and 62 MRSA blood culture isolates were collected over a period of 8 months. The methods such as fosfomycin agar dilution (0.25 µg/ml to 512 µg/ml) , Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion (150μg of fosfomycin + 50μg of glucose -6-phosphate) and fosfomycin screen agar (32 µg/ml, 48µg/ml & 64µg/ml) were performed. All the three methods are interpreted using EUCAST guidelines. The agreement between the new method and the reference method was calculated.
Results: Among the tested isolates, 100 % of MRSA followed by E. coli (86.4%), K.pneumoniae (65.2%) and E.cloacae (50%) were susceptible to fosfomycin. The MIC50 and MIC90 of fosfomycin was 0.5µg/ml and 2µg/ml for MRSA, 16µg/ml and 32µg/ml for K.pneumoniae, 4µg/ml and 16µg/ml for E.coli, 8µg/ml and 32µg/ml for E.cloacae respectively.
Conclusion: In this study, we observed that fosfomycin has a good in-vitro effect on most of the carbapenem resistant Enterobacterales and MRSA isolates tested.
Key words: Fosfomycin; susceptibility testing; antibiotic resistance; MRSA; carbapenem resistant Enterobacterales; MIC
Short running title: In vitro fosfomycin susceptibility
Vahid Zolghadri, Alireza Barari, Asieh Abbasi Daloii, Hosein Abed Natanzi,
Volume 19, Issue 5 (9-2025)
Abstract
Background and objectives: Melanoma is an aggressive and malignant cancer that results from the transformation of pigment-producing melanocytes. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of nettle extract consumption and aerobic exercise on gene expression IFN-γ and Endostatin in melanoma cancer in liver tissue of mices .
Methods: 20 male BALB/c mices were randomly divided into 4 groups including: control, endurance, nettle, endurance+nettle. The training program included running on a treadmill for 30 minutes at a speed of 16 meters per minute. One meter per minute was added every week until it reached 22 meters per minute in the eighth week. Melanoma cells were induced subcutaneously in the left side of the mouse. The experimental group consumed 30 mg/kg /day of nettle ethanol extract orally for 8 weeks. RT PCR was used to measure the expression of IFN-γ and Endostatin genes.
Results: IFN-γ gene expression in experimental groups was not different from control group; While the level of Endostatin was significantly reduced (P = 0.142, P <0.001, respectively). IFN-γ gene expression levels in the experimental groups increased compared to the control group, but did not reach a significant level. Also, Endostatin gene expression levels in training and combination groups were significantly reduced compared to the control group (P = 0.022, P <0.001, respectively).
Conclusion: The results showed that endurance training with nettle extract may inhibit angiogenesis and capillary tissue formation in tumor tissue of mices with melanoma cancer by increasing IFN-γ and decreasing Endostatin.
Leila Pirdel, Maryam Safajoo, Masoud Maleki,
Volume 19, Issue 5 (9-2025)
Abstract
ABSTARCT
Background and objectives: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are well known as a major immune modulator. A subgroup of the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD) like receptors (NLRs) has been recently found to play an immune/inflammatory regulatory role.
We aimed to analyze and compare the gene expression level of the NOD‐like receptor family pyrin domain containing protein (NLRP), such as NLRP6 and NLRP12, in Wharton’s jelly-derived mesenchymal stem cells (WJ-MSCs) treated with interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), the pro-inflammatory cytokine, and untreated cells as well.
Methods: The immunophenotypic characterization of the isolated WJ-MSCs was performed by flow cytometry. Next, they were cultured with or without IFN-g, followed by the comparison of expression level of NLRP6 and NLRP12 genes by using qPCR.
Results: The treatment of cells with IFN-γ indicated a statistically significant increased expression of NLRP12 gene as compared to untreated cells while the expression of NLRP6 was failed to detect in the cells with or without IFN-γ treatment.
Conclusion: The altered expression level of NLRP12 might be suggested its contributory role in the inflammatory regulation mediated by WJ-MSCs in response to the exposure to IFN-g; however, additional studies are needed to validate its role in experimental inflammatory-related disease models.
Maryam Lotfi, Nasser Behpoor, Mehrali Rahimi, Afshar Jafari,
Volume 19, Issue 5 (9-2025)
Abstract
Background and objectives: Type 2 diabetes is a serious chronic disease associated with hyperglycemia, overweight and metabolic syndrome. The prevalence of this disease is constantly increasing. The aim of this trial was to investigate the separate and combined effects of resistance training and cucumber juice consumption on liver indicators in women with type 2 diabetes.
Methods: Type 2 diabetic women aged 35 – 70 years (N = 40) were selected. Subjects were randomly placed into four groups (three experimental groups and one control group). The Training+placebo group implemented resistance training and consumed placebo, The Training+ Supplement group implemented resistance training and consumed cucumber juice, The Supplement consumed cucumber juice, and control group consumed placebo for eight weeks. 48 hours before and after the research, blood sampling was done and the changes of liver enzymes levels were investigated and compared among the groups. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and Tukey post hoc test at the significance level of 0.05.
Results: The results of the present study showed that eight weeks of separate or combined resistance training and consumption of cucumber juice led to a significant reduction in the levels liver (ALT, AST and ALP) indices (P≤0.05).
Conclusion: In the present study, liver enzymes levels decreased. Therefore, separate or combined implementation of resistance training and consumption of cucumber juice can be used as therapeutic aids to control the levels of liver enzymes in women with type 2 diabetes.
